February 15- Wednesday’s Idol was a continuation of Hollywood week where the contestants sing or often fight their way for a spot onto the next round and the next, leading to the Top 24 pick and the live show.
Last week’s edition was pretty much useless as it was just setting up into this week’s group night and solos. The two-hour show was packed with singing! Albeit there were still some drama, excuses, forgetting the lyrics, passing out and getting sick.
The first hour showcased the group rounds which were so-so. Only a couple of standouts. The next half was the solo round where the hopefuls sing with a band accompaniment. Here, the contestants are allowed to play an instrument if they want. The winner of the night is ‘Georgia’. Yes “Georgia on my mind,” the song! We heard three different versions and they were all impressive. Not flawless but pretty dang good that all three judges stood up for Jen Hirsch and raved on the other two who also sang it, Reed Grimm and Adam Brock.
Also notable were Colton Dixon (very American Idol Top 10 material, he’s so comfortable with the camera, has the looks and voice to back it up!) and Skyler Laine (very engaging, authentic country sound!). We are not liking Philip Philipps anymore. Too one-dimensional and predictable with his plaid shirt, guitar, growly sound and spastic moves. Listening to his solo sounded like his audition where he wowed us initially. We’ve seen it, is that all you can do? Now what? If he goes far in the competition hopefully he’ll do something else and surprise people, but if he sticks to what we’re seeing now then everyone will grow tired soon enough.
The Performances:
Jen Hirsh, “Georgia on my Mind”
Reed Grimm, “Georgia on my Mind”
We’re not sure how and why Reed could agree to this concocted set-up by the Idol producers. He doesn’t need the drama and effect- he can do this just by his talent alone! You’ll see what we’re talking about when you watch the video.
Adam Brock, “Georgia on my Mind”
A bit over-the-top but hey, it worked!
Colton Dixon, “What About Now?” by Chris Daughtry
Skyler Laine, “You Lie,” by The Band Perry
All five and Philip Philipps are going to Las Vegas for the next round.
Trivia: “Georgia on My Mind” is a song written in 1930 by Hoagy Carmichael (music) and Stuart Gorrell (lyrics). It is the official state song of the U.S. state of Georgia. Ray Charles, a native of Georgia, recorded it in 1960 on the album The Genius Hits the Road. It became Georgia’s state song in 1979. Inspired by this blues version, Willie Nelson introduced the song to country audiences in 1978 as a #1 Country/Western hit. (Wikipedia)
